Tour Scotland Photograph Lewis Chessmen

Tour Scotland photograph of the Lewis Chessmen which were discovered in 1831 on the Island Of lewis, Outer Hebrides, Scotland. The Lewis Chessmen, or Uig Chessmen are named after the bay where they were found, are a group of 78 chess pieces from the 12th century most of which are carved in walrus ivory. The chessmen were probably made in Trondheim, Norway, in the 12th century, although some scholars have suggested other Nordic countries. During that period, the Outer Hebrides, along with other major groups of Scottish islands, were ruled by Norway. They may constitute some of the few complete, surviving medieval chess sets, although it is not clear if a set as originally made can be assembled from the pieces. When found, the hoard contained 93 artifacts: 78 chess pieces, 14 tablemen and one belt buckle.



All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.

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